While online poker is not regulated in Massachusetts, that does not mean there are no options to play. Online gambling sites are going through the procedures, and the groundwork is being put in place for a return of online poker to MA, just like the returns of regulated online poker to New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
In this article, we have highlighted the best offshore poker sites, how they operate, and how they present you with the opportunity to play online poker for real money in Massachusetts.
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BetOnline |
100% deposit match up to $3,000 |
100% deposit match up to $3,000
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BetOnline
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BOLCASINO
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100% deposit match up to $3,000 for new players. This is spread over your first three deposits, $1,000 maximum awarded with each deposit. Minimum of $25 for each deposit. Wagering requirements: 30x. |
Bovada |
100% deposit match up to $3,000 |
100% deposit match up to $3,000
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Bovada
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CAWELCOME100
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100% deposit match up to $3,000 with your first deposit. Promo code CAWELCOME100 must be used to claim. Wagering requirements : 30x (live betting and craps do not qualify for rollover requirements). Maximum wager of 50% of your deposit in one bet. |
Everygame Casino |
200% up to $2,000 + 100 spins and $50 freebie |
200% up to $2,000 + 100 spins and $50 freebie
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Everygame Casino
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INSIDERS1
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Bonus valid only in casino red with bonus codes: INSIDERS1and INSIDERS2. Minimum deposit of $20 USD applies. General terms and conditions apply. |
Sportsbetting.ag |
50% deposit match up to $1000 |
50% deposit match up to $1000
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Sportsbetting.ag
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SB1000
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50% deposit up to $1,000. You must enter sportsbetting.ag promo code SB1000 to claim the bonus. You must deposit at least $55 to claim. Wager requirement: the bonus comes with a 10x turnover. Deposits using Neteller and Skrill are not valid for this promotion. Validity period: 30 days. The offer is valid for the site’s sportsbook ONLY. This bonus is for new customers/first-time depositors in Canada and USA 50% deposit up to $1,000. You must enter sportsbetting.ag promo code SB1000 to claim the bonus. You must deposit at least $55 to claim. Wager requirement: the bonus comes with a 10x turnover. Deposits using Neteller and Skrill are not valid for this promotion. Validity period: 30 days. The offer is valid for the site’s sportsbook ONLY. This bonus is for new customers/first-time depositors in Canada and USA |
Ignition |
Up To $3,000 Bonus |
Up To $3,000 Bonus
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Ignition
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NO CODE REQUIRED
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25x wagering requirement, requirement must be met within 30 days. No promo code applies. Up to %150 deposit match for new players ($1500 casino & $1500 poker) |
List of the Best Massachusetts Poker Sites
When looking at online poker sites, you will want to ensure that the site is reliable and gives you the best value. Here are the best real money online poker sites in Massachusetts:
- BetOnline – The Number One Online Poker Site in MA
- Bovada – Great Cash Games Through Zone Poker
- Everygame – 200% Match on Your Initial Deposit
- SportsBetting.ag – $1,000 Sign-Up Bonus
- Ignition – Juicy Online Cash Games Available
The Latest Massachusetts Poker News
Massachusetts has a rich poker history and a considerable population hungry to play on the poker felt. While online poker is not regulated in Massachusetts, here is some of the latest news about Massachusetts online poker:
- 2023 – Offshore poker providers create a thriving Massachusetts online poker scene, with many online real-money poker games running, including cash games and tournaments.
- 2022 – The Massachusetts Gaming Commission introduced a new regulation to ensure underage gambling is outlawed while also trying to protect player data, setting up more groundwork for Massachusetts online poker regulation.
- 2021 – Following a 2019 bill in the MA legislature to allow online gambling, online poker was included. This bill did not progress any further, but discussions were started again in 2021.
Reviews of the Best Massachusetts Poker Sites
During this section, we will go into the best online poker sites in Massachusetts. Each of these online poker providers is an offshore website that has gained licenses from outside the United States jurisdiction. Let’s look into the five best websites that give online poker to Massachusetts.
1. BetOnline – The No.1 Massachusetts Online Poker Site
Poker site facts:
- Website: www.betonline.ag
- Payout time: 2-5 working days
- Established: 2006
- License: Netherlands Antilles
- Headquarters: Panama City, Panama
Our Verdict: 4.7/5
BetOnline is a perfect online poker site for all players. They have a long-standing reputation for being reliable and secure with player funds, running huge guarantees for online poker tournaments, and having great cash games running around the clock. BetOnline also provides a $1,000 bonus for first depositors.
BetOnline has been in the mix for the best online poker provider in the United States. It has built up credibility since 2001 as a company but has provided online poker since 2011. While Black Friday threw sites like PokerStars and Partypoker out of the United States, albeit temporarily, BetOnline stepped in and provided US online poker players with a safe and enjoyable online poker experience.
One of the best things about BetOnline is the player pool – many online poker players can get turned off by the number of poker pros sharking in online cash game pools or tournament fields. At BetOnline, the field comprises mostly recreational and fun poker players, making for action cash games and exciting tournaments every time.
Poker Game Variety at BetOnline: 4.7/5
As the poker world has developed, players have grown away from playing No-Limit Hold’em. Thankfully, BetOnline has a host of online poker variants for players to enjoy. Firstly, you can play online poker tournaments and cash games from Massachusetts through BetOnline around the clock and enjoy the more exciting forms of online poker. Whether you enjoy the four-card action of Pot-Limit Omaha, the old-school games of Seven-Deuce Triple Draw or Razz, or even a mix of all at the same table, BetOnline has you covered.
Payment Options: 4.0/5
BetOnline gives the options of Neteller, Skrill, and crypto options like Bitcoin. You can also use a bank wire to deposit and withdraw money. Approvals usually take around 24 hours, and your account balance will adjust.
Customer Support: 4.3/5
Massachusetts online poker can be a confusing set of regulations and processes for many people. Still, thankfully BetOnline is equipped with a great customer support system to help you every step of the way. You can resolve your query quickly if you want to call in via telephone, submit an email ticket, or chat via Live Chat or Skype.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.2/5
When looking for a US online poker site to play on, you should pay a keen eye to their promotions. If you want to know what BetOnline is cooking in this department, you will be pleased; they are giving players a bonus of up to $1,000 at 100% on their first deposit. BetOnline also has ways of giving bonuses to returning poker players, in ways like a Bad Beat Jackpot, which has a jackpot of almost $400,000 at the time of writing and is only going up.
BetOnline Online Poker Bonus:
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker Sign-up Offer 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS For every $50 given in rake, $5 is released back. $50 ✅ Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Great bonus for first depositors
- Huge variety of poker games
- Has a $500,000 GTD poker series
- Fun, recreational player pool
- Quick payment process
Cons:
- Not many high-stakes games
2. Bovada – Great Cash Games Through Zoom Poker
Poker site facts:
- Website: www.bovada.lv
- Payout time: Between 24-48 hours; sometimes 10 working days
- Established: 2004
- License: N/A
- Headquarters: Costa Rica
Our Verdict: 4.6/5
Bovada is a poker operator that has been gaining credibility slowly over the past few years but has recently seen a massive burst in growth and activity for US online poker. The biggest reason is largely their ‘Zone Poker’ offering, something equivalent to PokerStars’ Zoom cash game Format, allowing poker players to get a huge amount of online poker hands compared to traditional static tables.
The growth sparked by Zone Poker has led to Bovada being able to ramp up its online poker tournament offering as well as its general poker bonuses and promotions. You can find great poker variants and many opportunities to play on Bovada.
You can find your choice quite limited as a Massachusetts online poker player. There are great balanced sites like BetOnline, but you should play on an online poker site that is more dynamic and gets more excitement flowing through your poker games.
Bovada has poker games of so many variants that create huge tournament prize pools or juicy online cash games, which can present an excellent opportunity for some online poker players.
Bovada has a sleek and simple user interface and runs constant promotions and tournaments to keep all online poker players interested. If you are a Massachusetts online poker player and want to go to some of the biggest tournament fields on a Sunday, Bovada could be the place for you.
Poker Game Variety at Bovada: 4.8/5
One of the key things about Bovada is the focus on anonymity. If you are a Massachusetts online poker player, you might find it easier to learn on Bovada under the anonymity scope.
Payment Options: 4.7/5
The payouts on Bovada are fast and simple, a great process that makes your online poker experience in Massachusetts nice and straightforward. You can receive your withdrawals through all major credit cards, Bitcoin, or even voucher payments. The only negative about Bovada’s payment options is a 6% transaction fee on credit cards up to $1,500.
Customer Support: 4.2/5
The customer support at Bovada is excellent for Massachusetts online poker players. Whether you want to call via telephone, open a support ticket via email or use their live chat option, you can get support fairly quickly. A Help Center resource gives advice, walkthroughs, and tips to all poker players. Playing online poker in Massachusetts can be complicated, so it’s nice that Bovada has this option available.
Bonuses & Promos: 3.5/5
The bonuses and promotions that Bovada could be improved. While the site offers a sweet first-time depositors bonus of 100% up to $500, this is where a lot of the value ends. After this, their rakeback is fairly poor for poker players, making it tough to be a winning poker player in their cash game pools. The rakeback you get through “miles” can be spent on casino bonuses and tournaments.
Bovada Online Poker Bonus:
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Deposit Match Bonus 100% up to $500 INSIDERS 25x $25 ✅ Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Zoom Poker feature
- Help Centre resource
- Great cash game pools
- Huge tournament series and guarantees
- Fast transactions
Cons:
- Poor rakeback and bad bonuses
- Anonymity can make the games less social
3. Everygame – 200% Match on Your Initial Deposit
Poker site facts:
- Website: www.poker.everygame.eu
- Payout time: Within two working days
- Established: 2006
- License: Curacao
- Headquarters: Antiguan & Barbuda
Our Verdict: 4.3/5
Everygame is one of the most trusted and reliable US online poker sites available for Massachusetts poker players. It has been a hit with Massachusetts online poker players, a serene and quick poker client, quick withdrawals, and fantastic promotions and bonuses.
Everygame has built itself a great foundation to build off in the US online poker market. While it has become known for its stability, reliability, and safety, it now needs to further its online poker offering to get ahead of the competition.
This online poker site is excellent for Massachusetts online poker players as it provides low-stakes action in tournaments and cash games and allows a lot of bonuses and promotions to incentivize new players. The various poker games and variants make it a great place to learn how to play Pot-Limit Omaha and Razz without losing too much money.
Everygame could add more poker games and increase the stakes, as Massachusetts online poker players may opt to go to one of the online poker sites with higher stakes cash games and tournament series available.
One colossal advantage at Everygame is the recreational field – because Everygame runs an online casino and sportsbook options, you will find lots of fun poker players in all the cash games that will be looking to play exciting and aggressive poker.
Poker Game Variety at Everygame: 3.9/5
Everygame is an excellent spot for poker players to learn how to play if they are in MA. The downside to these low-stakes and limited game variants is that if you are an online poker player looking to ascend the online poker ladder, you can’t do that at Everygame. While you can dabble in low-stakes, No-Limit Hold’em, and Pot-Limit Omaha, you cannot find high-stakes cash games or big tournaments on Sundays.
Payment Options: 3.5/5
All Massachusetts online poker players face a challenge: depositing and withdrawing to offshore poker sites. Everygame works around this well by using cryptocurrency, but if you are to use credit cards, you could run into delays. Everygame has money transfers, checks, and Bitcoin to try and make the process easier.
Customer Support: 4.5/5
Everygame Poker can boast a terrific customer support option for poker players, with a quick-responding live chat that is accessible 24/7. Suppose you are trying to get the best experience possible while playing online poker in Massachusetts. You will also want to contact Everygame Poker via email, as they respond to many queries. One issue with their support is the FAQ section, which lacks helpful information.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.2/5
One of the best things about Everygame Poker is their bonus and promotions – they generate many new sign-ups and add more players to their games through their welcome bonuses. There is a $200 bonus that is added upon your first deposit, up to $1,000 – a huge bankroll booster for anybody. Everygame Poker has a fantastic loyalty structure that works in tiers, giving FPP (frequent player points) back to online poker players as rakeback.
Everygame Online Poker Bonus:
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Deposit Match Bonus 200% up to $1,000 INSIDERS Released through Frequent Player Points $25 ✅ Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Clean user interface
- Soft & friendly games
- PLO & NLH
- Great mobile option
Cons:
- Withdrawal charges
- No high-stakes action
4. SportsBetting.ag – $1,000 Sign-Up Bonus
Poker site facts:
- Website: www.sportsbetting.ag
- Payout time: Within 48 hours
- Established: 2011
- License: Panama
- Headquarters: Denver, CO
Our Verdict: 4.2/5
SportsBetting.ag was rebranded in 2012 and is one of the longest-tenured gaming operators on US soil. It can be a useful place for Massachusetts poker players to play online poker, as the offers on the poker site are fair, and the pool is full of recreationals.
SportsBetting.ag can boast a new and dynamic poker client that was updated in 2016 and works both on Mac and Windows. A player pool is available for MA online poker players to take the battle up until mid-stakes and high-stakes. Thanks to the casino and sportsbook offering of SportsBetting.ag, you will find lots of recreational fish on all tables.
The average pot for the real money online cash games often exceeds 20 times the big blind, and the flop is seen at around 30% of hands – these are all statistics that point to juicy and action cash games, perfect if you are in Massachusetts and want to play some fun online poker. The reliable and straightforward payment methods also ensure all poker players from MA can get their money online felt with little problem.
Despite a significant lack of marketing compared to the other US online poker sites, SportsBetting.ag needs to do a better job generating traffic. This a perfect situation for Massachusetts online poker players, as you can jump into various stakes at SportsBetting.ag Poker and play in highly soft player pools.
SportsBetting.ag has focused on giving you as much back as possible, with great promotions and bonuses available that are huge bankroll boosters. Whether their first-time sign-up bonus provides players up to $1,000 to add to their poker bankroll, their favorable rakeback structure, or even their $10,000 freerolls, MA poker players can get a massive amount of value from this online poker site.
Poker Game Variety at SportsBetting.ag: 4.9/5
SportsBetting.ag has many online poker variants for MA poker players to enjoy. Whether you are a fan of No-Limit Hold’em, Pot-Limit Omaha, or some of the quirkier variants like Americana or Texas 6+, you can find many games with player pools on SportsBetting.ag. This is great for Massachusetts online poker, as you can grind through the stakes available and get into some action games.
Payment Options: 4.2/5
There are many ways for Massachusetts online poker players to get money to and from SportsBetting.ag. You can use checks, bank wire, credit cards, or even Bitcoin for withdrawals. The payment process can take a maximum of 48 hours.
Customer Support: 3.2/5
The customer support of SportsBetting.ag is lacking for the online poker site. A poker player from MA may not be thrilled with the FAQ sections’ lack of information, and the customer support team is required more than we would like. One good thing was that the customs agents would be more than happy to help, so your query or problem would get a high level of support.
Bonuses & Promos: 3.5/5
The bonuses and promotions are one area that could be scaled up in a major way by SportsBetting.ag. The welcome bonus is fantastic, giving players a maximum of $1,000 when they first deposit, but you can find the rest of the bonuses and promotions lacking after this. You will get some freeroll tickets into some $2,500 guaranteed Sunday tournaments, and these are great for new MA poker players but not for the more experienced player who would want something more suited for an online poker grinder.
Sportsbetting.ag online Poker Bonus:
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Deposit Match Bonus 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS $50 in rake is released for $5 $50 ✅ Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Huge game selection
- Soft player pool
- Action online cash games
- Sleek and easy-to-use interface
Cons:
- One bonus only after signup
- Poor FAQ section
5. Ignition – Juicy Online Cash Games
Poker site facts:
- Website: www.ignitioncasino.eu
- Payout time: Fast processing within 24 hours
- Established: 2016
- License: Curacao
- Headquarters: Costa Rica
Our Verdict: 4.1/5
One of the new boys to the online poker market in the US, Ignition Poker has taken the game by providing excellent online cash poker for Massachusetts poker players and beyond, holding substantial online poker tournaments weekly and holding Zone Poker on their client. They hit over $2 million each week in guarantees and give new sign-ups a bonus of $3,000 to get their money on the online tables.
Ignition is rapidly becoming one of the more popular places to play online poker in the United States, and this will be the same for Massachusetts online poker players. Do not be fooled by the simplistic online poker software. Ignition has built up a massive core of poker players through great value in bonuses, fast deposits, withdrawals, and keeping cash games and player pools full of action and excitement.
Zone Poker is undoubtedly a booster for Ignition Poker, as this gives MA online poker players a chance to play a Zoom-style cash game format and build a considerable sample size of online poker hands. For those budding poker players in Massachusetts who want to review their online poker profitability, Ignition is a great place to cut your teeth.
The anonymity factor of Ignition Poker, similar to Bovada, cuts out the predatory “Shark” poker behavior and keeps the games fair and even. Anonymity will put off online poker regs because they cannot bum hunt, leaving space for people who want to play online poker for fun and enjoyment.
Ignition Poker has run with its success through online cash games. It now can allow MA online poker players to participate in a massive online poker tournament offering, including their vast tournament guarantees every Sunday. The customer support of Ignition adds to how good the site is – issues are resolved quickly, and they listen to player feedback.
Poker Game Variety at Ignition: 4.9/5
No matter what online poker player you are, you can find something on Ignition Poker. It will be safe to assume that Massachusetts poker players want to do more than play No-Limit Hold’em. Thankfully, on Ignition, you can participate in Hyper Turbo tournaments or even a Sit & Go with a huge jackpot. The cash games on offer and the Zone Poker player pool make Ignition a must-play online poker site for anyone in Massachusetts.
Payment Options: 4.5/5
Ignition leads the way for online US poker sites, as they can get withdrawals and deposits sorted within 24 hours. Whether you are more comfortable using crypto or bank transfer, they are adjustable and make sure you are settled within short order.
Customer Support: 4/5
Ignition is a trailblazer in customer support. Massachusetts online poker players may need help when first using the poker client, and Ignition is on hand to help with a host of options: live chat, email, forums, and more. There is a fantastic Help Page resource, and the forum is a great ad.
Bonuses & Promos: 3.5/5
There are excellent bonuses for newcomers to Ignition Poker. You can get up to a $2,000 match on your first deposit, and if you are a Bitcoin enthusiast, you can get up to $3,000 by using Satoshis. Their loyalty system of Poker Points is prevalent, as players can turn their rakeback into tournament seats and participate in a $100,000 guaranteed Sunday tournament using them.
Ignition Online Poker Bonuses & Promos:
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? New Player Welcome Bonus 150% deposit match up to $2,000 INSIDERS 25x $20 ✅ Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Zoom Poker feature
- Great online poker cash games
- Turbo withdrawals
- User-friendly mobile app
Cons:
- Poor rakeback
- Basic poker client
FAQs about Poker in Massachusetts
Is online poker regulated in Massachusetts?
Can I play poker online in Massachusetts?
What is the most legit online poker site for Massachusetts?
What is the best online poker site for beginners in Massachusetts?
Comparing Poker Sites in MA
There are many avenues for Massachusetts online poker players to pick to get into online poker games. Here are some of the best online poker choices for MA players to get on:
Poker Room Poker Bonus Promo Code Casino Poker Freerolls Qualifiers Guarantees BetOnline 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 10+ ✅ ✅ ✅ Bovada 100% up to $500 INSIDERS 8+ ❌ ✅ ✅ Everygame 200% up to $1,000 + 25 free spins INSIDERS 6+ ✅ ✅ ✅ SportsBetting.ag 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 6+ ✅ ✅ ❌ Ignition 100% up to $2,000 INSIDERS 5+ ✅ ✅ ✅ Is Online Poker Legal in Massachusetts?
While playing online poker for real money is not regulated within Massachusetts, the sites we have recommended are all offshore and legal to play on – nobody has been prosecuted for playing real money online poker at these sites in the US. Massachusetts online poker players can play comfortably at these offshore online poker sites knowing they are playing legally and safely.
The regulation for online poker across the United States is gaining speed, especially in Massachusetts, where online casinos and sportsbooks have already made breakthroughs. As time passes, we will see poker operators join them and open the doors for online poker in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts has a range of poker options for people over the age of 21, who can play in casinos and poker rooms across the state.
What are the MA Poker Laws?
Online poker in Massachusetts is currently unregulated, but thankfully for poker fans in MA, you can still find ways to play cards. You can go to casinos and card rooms, like the Encore Boston Harbor’s Poker Room, or you can even host home poker games which are legal in Massachusetts. Here are some examples of gambling which are currently legal in Massachusetts:
- Live poker
- Horse racing
- Sportsbook
- Lottery
When Will Online Poker be Legal in Massachusetts?
As of now, online gambling was passed as legal in the state of Massachusetts at the start of 2023. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission is making serious advances to include online gambling in the state for benefit without causing harm, and we expect more advancements to be made this year. Once online gambling is introduced, online poker will follow swiftly.
The Ballot to Legalize Online Poker in MA
There is no current ballot to go through legislation for online poker in Massachusetts. In 2021 online sports betting was voted through, opening the door for more conversations around online gambling in MA and the eventualities of online poker in Massachusetts.
Tax on Online Poker Winnings in MA
One of the best things about playing on offshore poker sites while in the US is that you do not have to subject your winnings to any taxes. The offshore poker sites are licensed in countries outside the United States, which means they have no regulation or obligation to pay taxes to the United States on winnings.
Any poker winnings you make in Massachusetts at casinos or poker rooms are subject to a flat tax rate of 5%, which goes for all gambling winnings, including poker.
Regulated Poker Sites vs Offshore Poker Sites
When looking where you can play poker, the choice often comes between regulated poker sites and offshore poker sites. Regulated poker sites are only accessible in states where online poker is legal. This is not the situation in MA currently, so players have to look towards offshore poker sites licensed outside the United States. The biggest differences between regulated and offshore poker sites are:
- Licensed sites are “ringed-in” for each state
- Licensed poker apps and sites will have a headquarters in each state
- Offshore poker sites are not 100% legal to play on in the United States
- Licensed poker sites will have partnerships with brick-and-mortar casinos
- Offshore poker sites have more restrictions when it comes to payment transactions
As online poker in Massachusetts moves closer and closer toward statewide regulation, there will be many questions when that day comes. States can input player restrictions when it comes to access, and it leaves us with the question of how MA will operate as a player pool in online poker across the United States.
The two ways it will happen are either shared or ringed-fence. The shared pool is straightforward; it means that the player pool of MA can be shared and played with other legal poker player pools in states like New Jersey or Pennsylvania. States can also employ restrictions or ring-fences, leaving the state as an exclusive player pool. This is the most likely result when MA gets online poker legalized.
How to Play Online Poker in Massachusetts
If you want to play online poker in Massachusetts, you are in luck; you can join several offshore sites. Signing up for them and getting your seat at an online poker table can take minutes.
Step 1: Signing Up
If we take BetOnline as an example, you need to click join at the top of the page and enter some basic personal information.
Step 2: Input Registration Details
You must enter your name, date of birth, email, and zip code.
Step 3: Make a Deposit
One of the critical steps to get you playing real money online poker in Massachusetts is taking the actions to get your account loaded with real money. After registering your account, you can click deposit and follow the instructions on the page. Once your deposit is successful, you should get a confirmation.
Step 4: Begin Playing
After you have real money in your online poker account, you can get playing real money online poker. Scroll across the site and see a selection of games, tournaments, and variants you might want to partake in. Whether you play No-Limit Hold’em, Pot-Limit Omaha, or more, it’s all a click away.
Types of Poker Games available at Massachusetts Poker Sites
The most common online poker games available on offshore poker sites in MA are No-Limit Texas Hold’em and Pot-Limit Omaha. Some sites will offer games like Stud and Razz, but this is not across the board for MA online poker sites.
No-Limit Hold’em
No-Limit Texas Hold’em is the most popular poker variant and has existed for centuries.
The game has adapted and changed over the years, but now consists of each player at the table getting dealt two cards, known as “hole cards.” Then there are four rounds of betting which go from pre-flop, the flop (when three community cards are dealt), the turn (a fourth community card), and then the river (the fifth and final community card). The aim is to have the best hand with your hole cards and either four or three community cards. If you can’t, you will aim to try and get others to fold by betting.
Pot-Limit Omaha
Similar in structure to No-Limit Hold’em, the largest differentiator is that you have four cards instead of two, and you can only ever bet the limit of the pot. The variance in Pot-Limit Omaha is much higher, as each player will always have more equity with four cards instead of two. Having the betting limit set to pot also increases the opportunity for players to realize their equity. The significant difference is that you need to use two hole cards instead of one to make a hand.
Limit Hold’em
This is a much less exciting poker variant than the ones above but was soaring in popularity during the 90s and early 2000s. In Limit Hold’em, you can only bet a big blind before the flop, then two big blinds post-flop, or what is known as the big bet. The game allows people to realize their equity more and requires less math and skill and more interpretation of your opponent to get any live reads.
Poker Site Bonuses available
Bonuses are a huge focal point for bringing in new poker players to online sites. They are the best way to get people who are either new to poker or apprehensive about playing online poker to the game. The bonuses often come in matching deposits, free tickets, or freeroll tournaments, giving the poker player infinite value. There are some other bonuses that you should look out for.
Match Your Deposit Bonus
This bonus is a sign-up bonus for new players. The premise is that whatever the new poker player decides to deposit onto the site will be matched up to a percentage. It will also have a minimum deposit amount of 100% up to $1,000 or 300% of $3,000.
No Deposit Bonus
The no deposit bonus is one that both online poker rooms and casinos will use to get more traffic onto their sites. This bonus requires nothing other than signup from the new player. This is great for getting new players to join a specific online poker site compared to others than require deposits.
Freeroll Tickets
Online poker sites will run freeroll tournaments to give free money back to the existing and new player pools. One way to entice new signups is to give away freeroll tickets upon signing up, allowing a new player to win a decent amount of money for absolutely nothing, as freeroll poker tournaments have no entry fee.
Bonus Type About Recommended Site Welcome Bonus - These will often be Match Your Deposit Bonus’
- There will be a wagering amount that you need to clear by playing
- Bovada – 100% match up to $500
- $5 cleared per $10 raked
Ongoing Promotions - Reload bonuses, which are secondary deposits
- Includes freerolls and tournament tickets
- BetOnline – access to exclusive freerolls
Free Roll - Exclusive tournaments that are free to enter
- Great for beginners
- N/A
Comparing Sign-Up Bonuses
Casino Casino Bonus Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Expiration date BetOnline 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS $5 per $50 raked $50 ✅ 30 Days Bovada 100% up to $500 INSIDERS $5 per $10 raked $20 ✅ 30 Days Everygame 200% up to $1,000 INSIDERS $5 per $83.55 raked $20 ✅ 30 Days SportsBetting.ag 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS $5 for every $50 raked $50 ✅ 30 Days Ignition 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS $1 for every 30 points $20 ❌ 30 Days Making Deposits & Withdrawals
Options for depositing on offshore poker sites in Massachusetts are easy, simple, and quick to do. The best thing about these options is that they give every player the avenue to get money on a poker site and allow them to start playing real money online poker. Here is a selection of the payment methods you will get from your average online poker site. Each has advantages and disadvantages, so we have compared them for you.
Payment Method About Examples Cryptocurrencies - Fast withdrawals
- Lots of cryptocurrencies to use
- Gain bonuses from using this method
- Bitcoin
- Bitcoin Cash
- Litecoin
- Ethereum
Traditional Payment Methods - Easy to do
- Includes fees
- Reputable and safe
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
- Bank transfers
- Payment vouchers
eWallets - Speedy deposits and withdrawals
- Anonymous
- Link multiple poker sites to an eWallet
- PayPal
- Skrill
- Neteller
- ecoPayz
Deposit Options Available
The table below includes the deposit options you can do from the top-ranked online poker sites. These are just deposit options and are not the same as withdrawals.
Poker Site Bitcoin Bitcoin Cash Ethereum Dogecoin Debit / Credit Cards Bank Transfer PayPal BetOnline ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ Bovada ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ Everygame ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ Sport sBetting.ag
✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ Ignition ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ Withdrawal Options Available
The way you can withdraw from offshore poker sites is listed below, and you should note that no offshore poker site will have a PayPal withdrawals option, the same as depositing.
PokerSite Bitcoin Bitcoin Cash Ethereum Dogecoin Debit / Credit Cards Bank Transfer PayPal BetOnline ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ Bovada ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ Everygame ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ Sportsbetting.ag ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ Ignition ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ Playing on Massachusetts Poker Apps & Mobile Sites
Playing online poker on your mobile is one of the most accessible forms of poker in MA. The offshore poker sites we’ve recommended do not operate on mobile via a poker app but instead allow you to access their client through a smartphone browser. This is highly convenient and means you do not have to do any app installation.
You can go from being a new player to playing mobile online poker for real money in minutes, thanks to this feature. You can also play all the same variants, games, and tournaments you usually play on your computer.
Likewise, you can also carry out any customizable options that you prefer, whether the seat you are in or the felt color.
Tips for Playing Online Poker for Real Money in Massachusetts
If you are going to start to play online poker in Massachusetts, you should always aim to improve your online poker skills to ensure you have the best time possible. We have listed some handy poker tips below to get you started today.
- Tight is Right: When you play online poker cash games or tournaments, you want to be tighter than looser. In a state like Massachusetts, there will be a lot of recreational online poker players going crazy – if you remain more disciplined than they do, you will win money from them quickly.
- Avoid Tilt – One of the biggest causes of losses in online poker is players going on online poker sites when they are tilted and losing money from making poor emotional decisions. If you feel angry, you should take a break and return to the online poker site once calm and relaxed.
- Game Selection – Are you at a table with a bunch of Sharks playing tight and looking to try and bully you? Do not be afraid to leave that table and find a cash table that seems more fun or recreational.
- Stick to a Bankroll: Before you embark on your online poker career, always play within the confines of a bankroll. Whether it is having X buy-ins per stake or just keeping yourself a set amount you can lose, the game of poker is much more fun when you only lose what you can afford.
Playing Online Poker vs Poker Live in Massachusetts
Playing online poker and live poker in a Massachusetts casino or poker room will change how poker is played. Online poker is renowned for being much tougher than live poker, mainly because there are more online poker professionals than there are live, and they are playing at a higher level than people who play live poker. Playing online means you play more hands, which lessens the variance but can also make the games harder as it heightens the skill edge between players.
Live poker can be fun in that you are often up against recreationals, but the number of hands dealt per hour can be around 20, making the process quite dull if you are at a dry table. Online poker has features or formats like Zoom Poker on Ignition, which is so fast that you can play almost 1,000 hands within 60-90 minutes.
When you play online, you can use charts to check your opening range, and also, there is much less mathematical skill required as the equations are done on the poker client. You must count your opponents’ stack and do the math in live poker.
Live Poker in Massachusetts – Casinos With Poker Rooms
Massachusetts hosts two notable places to play poker, both within the Encore Boston Harbor and the MGM Springfield, both of Massachusetts state resort casinos. The poker rooms can vary in size but have great cash games running around the clock.
Encore Boston Harbor
- Address: One Broadway Everett, MA 02149
- Opening Hours: 24/7
The Encore Boston Harbor is a Wynn-owned poker room and has over 74 tables running. This allows Encore to run regular poker tournaments and many cash game promotions and ensure players are not waiting too long for a seat. There are multiple promotions like bad beat jackpots and high hands running regularly.
MGM Springfield
- Address: One MGM Way, Springfield, MA 01103
- Opening Hours: 24/7
The MGM Springfield is a much smaller poker room than the Encore Boston Harbor, with only 23 tables and not as many poker tournaments running at this venue. There are reportedly great cash games running at this poker room, however, with long waitlists regularly happening at all stakes from $1/$3 upward.
Famous Massachusetts Poker Players
While Massachusetts doesn’t have the poker pedigree of states like Las Vegas, California, or Texas, it is steeped in poker history by producing multiple World Series of Poker bracelet winners and players that have gone on to reach the pinnacle of the game.
- Dan Colman – Dan Colman, coming from Holden, Massachusetts, is one of poker’s biggest winners. He built up winnings of over $28 million from live poker tournaments, including a major win when he took a WSOP gold bracelet in The Big One For One Drop, a $1 million buy-in event where he captured first place and the prize of $15.3 million.
- Nick Petrangelo: Another MA native who became one of the best modern poker players, Nick Petrangelo has built up a healthy $20 million playing live poker tournaments. He is known to be both an online and live crusher and has captured two WSOP bracelets.
- Anthony Zinno: Anthony Zinno is one of the most underrated poker players, having captured four WSOP bracelets, three WPT Championships, and $11 million in live tournament earnings. He has captured two bracelets since 2021, showing how hot he is currently running.
- Dan Harrington: Dan Harrington is a legend of poker. The Cambridge, MA, native took down the World Series of Poker Main Event in 1995 and was one of the first to examine the strategy behind winning a poker tournament. He made two final tables later at the World Series of Poker Main Event in 2003 and 2004, a monumental achievement.
The Best Online Poker Site in Massachusetts
Our choice for the best online poker site in MA is BetOnline. It is hard to go wrong with BetOnline, whether you want action cash games, big tournament guarantees, or a place to play mixed poker games and have fun.
Multiple promotions, deposit bonuses, and rakeback schemes help players get the most value for their money playing online poker.
Cameron Dhaliwal
Cameron Dhaliwal
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